Shaping the future of cell and gene therapy workforce development: training of cell therapy processing personnel - perspectives from the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy Lab Practices Committee

Abstract

BackgroundThe field of cell and gene therapy (CGT) is expanding at a rapid rate. CGT workforce shortage is a growing concern, and high-quality training programs are essential to keep up with the increasing demand for qualified CGT technologists. MethodsA working group within the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) Laboratory Practices Committee developed an ISCT Lab Practices Committee Survey on Cell and Gene Therapy Technologist Training to gather information on CGT laboratory technologist training practices. ResultsThe survey results characterize the training landscape of CGT laboratory professionals and highlight the lack of standardization in CGT training. ConclusionsThe heterogeneity of training practices among CGT laboratories can make it challenging to design, implement or assess a training program at an individual laboratory. To help navigate this challenge, the authors provide a high-level overview of the resources available for CGT training, describe several potential staff training models, outline a sample curriculum, and highlight some of the key practical considerations for implementing a CGT technologist training program in one’s institution.